Fissure Sealants at Parramatta Dental Clinic

Tooth decay is an increasing problem for people of all ages in Australia. According to the Australian Dental Association, dental sealants can help prevent cavities from occurring in the back teeth, where it’s easy for food particles to gather and bacteria to multiply.

Though you and your children may brush and floss each day, it can be challenging to reach into the pits of the back teeth with a toothbrush. Since the back teeth have such a rough surface, a toothbrush can’t glide over them as it does with your other teeth. That makes these teeth more vulnerable to decay.

What Are Sealants?

Available at Parramatta Dental Clinic, a dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating that can be applied to these teeth.

The material bonds into the grooves and ridges in the chewing surface of a molar. It forms a barrier between the surface and food particles or bacteria.

Protective pit and fissure sealants lower the risk of cavities in the deep grooves of your back teeth. We recommend them on permanent molars, which erupt around the ages of 6 and 12, respectively.

Though you and your children may brush and floss each day, it can be challenging to reach into the pits of the back teeth with a toothbrush. Since the back teeth have such a rough surface, a toothbrush can’t glide over them as it does with your other teeth. That makes these teeth more vulnerable to decay.

What Does the Process Involve?

Because sealants are a preventative treatment, no numbing or drilling is required. The process of having the sealant is quick and painless. We’ll prepare the tooth and clean it. Then, a bonding agent is used to ensure the sealant will stay on the tooth. The plastic sealant material is then applied to the tooth, allowed to dry and then harden. It takes only about 10 minutes and will provide approximately five years’ worth of protection. A sealant can also be reapplied at regular intervals.

The Child Dental Benefits Schedule

Children between the ages of 2 and 17 may be eligible for free dental care, which includes dental sealants. Through the Medicare Child Dental Benefits Schedule, they can have up to $1000 in services every two years. Your family must receive a government benefit such as the Family Tax Benefit Part A for your child to be eligible.

Your Child May Be Eligible

Learn whether your child can collect the Child Dental Benefits Schedule. Log in at my.gov.au or call the Medicare enquiries line on 132 011. You can also contact Parramatta Dental Clinic today and let us check for you! If you don’t want your child to miss school, we have late opening hours and are here for you on Saturdays.